Why did my turkey breast turn out chewy?

Chef's answer
The meat of a turkey is muscle fibers, connective tissues and fats. ... The bonds within the molecules begin to break down, causing proteins to unravel and the muscle meat becomes more tender. Of course the longer the turkey is cooked, the more the proteins are denatured and the meat gets tougher.
Frequently asked Questions 🎓
If using a cooler, filled it with ice to keep the turkey cold for up to 3 days. The brine time should be determined based on the size of turkey. For a turkey 15 pounds or under, brine for just 24 to 36 hours. For a turkey larger than 15 pounds, brine for up to 3 days..
The best cheese for turkey is usually a mild cheese, like Gouda, Edam, Colby, Havarti, Swiss, or even Muenster. If you want to taste the cheese more, you can use an aged, pungent cheese like Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or you can go for a blue cheese..
Simple turkey sides
  • 1) Bay roasted smashed potatoes. ...
  • 2) Green bean and goats cheese salad. ...
  • 3) Brussels sprouts and speck gratin. ...
  • 4) Couscous salad. ...
  • 5) Rocket coleslaw. ...
  • 6) Sweet potato and chive damper. ...
  • 7) Honey macadamia stuffing. ...
  • 8) Pork stuffing.
More items....
The best cheese for turkey is usually a mild cheese, like Gouda, Edam, Colby, Havarti, Swiss, or even Muenster. If you want to taste the cheese more, you can use an aged, pungent cheese like Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or you can go for a blue cheese..
A few tablespoons of leftover cranberry sauce whisked with one tablespoon or so of Dijon mustard makes a tangy, tart condiment ideal for leftover turkey sandwiches, which, in our family, are assembled using day-old homemade Parker House rolls instead of sandwich bread.
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  • Oscar Mayer Turkey Bacon ($2.99)
  • Jennie-O Extra-Lean Turkey Bacon ($1.99)
  • Applegate Farms Uncured Turkey Bacon ($4.
  • Our turkey bacon is not fully cooked and should be cooked thoroughly before consuming.
    A few more cooking questions 📍